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Shipping tip: Cubic capacity violations.

November 19, 2010

In an effort to help our customers with their freight shipping needs, Freightquote has created a freight shipping tips series.

What causes cubic capacity violations?

A Cubic Capacity Violation occurs when a shipment’s size exceeds the limitations listed on the BOL for a shipment.

Why would this occur?

Carriers work to optimize the freight they put in their LTL trucks to maximize their service ability and profits. Carrier tariffs communicate the freight dimensions (length, width, height and weight) a carrier prefers to maximize the space in their trucks. The specifics, or tariff, for each carrier is then loaded into Freightquote and, as long as accurate dimensions and weights are entered at the time of booking, Freightquote will pull accurate quotes for the specific shipment.

When a large shipment does not pull a quote on Freightquote, it’s because the shipment exceeds the cubic capacity limitations. In these instances, a volume quote is necessary. Obtaining a volume quote allows shippers to negotiate a one-time rate with a carrier for a larger capacity shipment.

A Cubic Capacity Violation occurs if the dimensions of the shipment exceed the carrier’s tariff or the volume quote negotiated. This violation will result in costly adjustments for the shipper.

How to avoid cubic capacity violations.

It is very important for shippers to have accurate weights and dimensions for their freight shipment to ensure a Cubic Capacity Violation is not incurred. This will reduce adjustments for the shipper and complaints with Freightquote and freight carriers.